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Macroinvertebrates

Elementary, Middle

Description

Four activities in this kit address the nature of invertebrates and include the concepts of  metamorphosis, bio-indication, environmental stressors, water quality, species identification, using identification keys, habitats and human impact on the environment.

The activities can be delivered as a unit or activities 1 & 2 can stand alone if desired.

Activity 1 - Macroinvertebrate Mayhem: Modified game of tag simulating macroinvertebrate pollution sensitivity

Activity 2 - Critter Dipping: Dip netting for aquatic invertebrates in a freshwater system.

Activity 3 - Water Quality assessment: Follow up to critter dipping activity, assessing the health of the water system.

Activity 4 - Pollution Pledge: This activity is all about reflection and planning for future action! Students will be asked to find a way to help reduce pollution to our waterways.

General Assessment

What skills does this resource explicitly teach?

  • Identification
  • Scientific sampling techniques such as dip netting and using identification technology tools.
  • Respectful behaviour when working in an outdoor setting.
  • Problem solving- such as how to reduce pollution in an aquatic system.

Strengths

  • Engaging activities that are hands-on.
  • Takes students outside to explore.
  • Relevant topic that focuses on pollution.
  • Meaningful experiences for students.
  • Organized and easy to use.
  • Background information

Recommendation of how and where to use it

The activities support a range of outcomes in science related to the concepts of biodiversity, aquatic ecosystems and human impacts.  This resource would be particularly valuable as an accompaniment to any unit on habitats or interactions within ecosystems. 

Relevant Curriculum Units

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Themes Addressed

Ecosystems (4)

  • Appreciating the Natural World
  • Biodiversity
  • Habitat Loss
  • Invasive Species

Water (2)

  • Marine Environments
  • Water Quality